An adaptation of classical exposure in CFT: the client meets avoided situations, emotions, or memories from the position of the compassionate self — from a position of strength and warmth, not of vulnerability. The resource of the compassionate self serves as a "container" that lets the client bear distress without an extra self-critical layer ("See, you are failing again").
Step-by-step guide
- Identify the avoided (a situation, an emotion, a memory)
- Build an exposure hierarchy (SUDS 20–100)
- Lead SRB + activate the compassionate self
- Holding the position of the compassionate self, slowly approach the avoided
- As distress rises: return to the breath and the image of the compassionate self
- Discuss the experience: what changed? what did you notice?
When to use
- With shame as the core avoided affect
- With PTSD — at the processing stage, after stabilization
- With social anxiety tied to shame
- With fear of compassion — as a gradual approach to warmth
Key phrases
We are going to approach what you usually avoid. But not alone. First let us make sure that the "compassionate part" of you is here, beside you.
Follow-up questions
From this place — strong, wise, and warm — we will look at this together.
Alternative phrasings
From a position of strength and warmth — let yourself meet this.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not begin exposure without stable access to the compassionate self
- ⚠️ With severe dissociation — contraindicated until stabilization
- ⚠️ Do not force the pace — the client controls the speed
Source: Gilbert P. 2010, 2014
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.